The Cache River is a beautiful and ecologically important river that flows through southern Illinois. The river is home to a variety of fish and wildlife, and it is a popular destination for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. In order to protect the river and its resources, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) requires all paddlers to obtain a permit before floating the river. The permit is valid for one year, and it costs $10. The permit can be purchased online or at any IDNR office.
The Cache River permit is an important tool for managing the river and its resources. The permit helps to ensure that paddlers are aware of the rules and regulations that govern the river, and it helps to fund the IDNR’s efforts to protect the river. The permit also helps to ensure that paddlers are aware of the potential hazards that exist on the river, such as downed trees, logjams, and swift currents. By obtaining a permit, paddlers can help to protect the Cache River and its resources, and they can also help to ensure their own safety while floating the river.
The Cache River is a beautiful and unique river that offers a variety of recreational opportunities. By obtaining a permit, paddlers can help to protect the river and its resources, and they can also help to ensure their own safety while floating the river. For more information about the Cache River permit, please visit the IDNR website or call the IDNR office at (618) 457-2200.
2025 Cache River Hunting Permit Raffle
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will conduct the 2025 Cache River Hunting Permit Raffle to award permits for the 2024-2025 hunting season. The Cache River is a unique and ecologically diverse area in southern Illinois, known for its excellent hunting opportunities. This raffle provides hunters with a chance to obtain permits for hunting waterfowl, deer, turkey, and other game species within the Cache River State Natural Area.
The raffle will open on **March 1, 2024**, and close on **June 1, 2024**. Applications can be submitted online through the IDNR website or by mail. The cost of entry is $15 per application. Interested hunters can apply for multiple permits, but each permit application must be submitted separately.
Winners of the raffle will be notified by mail after the drawing is held in **June 2024**. Permits will be non-transferable and valid for the 2024-2025 hunting season only. Hunters who receive a permit will be required to follow all applicable hunting regulations and safety guidelines.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Raffle Opens | March 1, 2024 |
| Raffle Closes | June 1, 2024 |
| Drawing Date | June 2024 (exact date TBA) |
| Winners Notified | After drawing |
| Permits Valid | 2024-2025 Hunting Season |
Permit Lottery and Selection Process
The Cache River NWR conducts a lottery to select hunters for the upcoming hunting season. The lottery is open to all applicants, and successful applicants will be notified by mail. The application period for the 2024-2025 season will open in March 2024 and close in April 2024. Applications can be submitted online or by mail.
Selection Process
The selection process is based on a random drawing. Once the application period has closed, all applications will be entered into a drawing. The drawing will be held in May 2024, and successful applicants will be notified by mail. Successful applicants will be required to pay a permit fee and provide proof of insurance before they can hunt on the refuge.
Permit Fees
| Permit Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single-day permit | $25 |
| Season permit | $50 |
Permit Details
Permits are valid for one day or for the entire season, depending on the type of permit purchased. Single-day permits are available for purchase at the refuge office on the day of the hunt. Season permits are available for purchase online or by mail. Hunters are required to carry their permit with them at all times while hunting on the refuge.
Permit Duration and Limitations
Permit Duration
The Cache River permit duration varies depending on the specific type of permit and the area of the Cache River being accessed. In general, permits are valid for a specific period of time, typically one year. Some permits may allow for extensions, while others may have specific expiration dates.
Permitted Activities
Permits are typically required for activities that may impact the Cache River ecosystem, such as hunting, fishing, camping, and boating. Different types of permits may be required for different activities, and specific restrictions may apply to each type of activity. It is important to check the specific permit requirements before engaging in any activities on the Cache River.
Seasonal Restrictions
Seasonal restrictions may apply to certain activities on the Cache River. For example, hunting and fishing may be restricted during specific times of the year to protect wildlife and spawning fish. It is important to check the specific permit requirements for any seasonal restrictions.
Special Permits
In addition to general permits, special permits may be required for certain activities or areas of the Cache River. Special permits may be required for activities such as scientific research, educational programs, or special events. It is important to check the specific permit requirements for any special activities.
Enforcement
Permits are enforced by the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge staff. Violators of permit regulations may be subject to fines, imprisonment, or other penalties.
Hunting Zones and Regulations
The Cache River NWR is divided into six hunting zones. Each zone has its own set of regulations, including the types of hunting allowed, the bag limits, and the season dates.
Zone 1: Big Lake/Peckerwood Lake
Zone 1 is located in the northwestern portion of the refuge. It is a popular area for deer and turkey hunting.
Zone 2: Bay Creek/McClellan Lake
Zone 2 is located in the northeastern portion of the refuge. It is a good area for waterfowl hunting.
Zone 3: Jake Hole/Mud Lake
Zone 3 is located in the central portion of the refuge. It is a popular area for deer and waterfowl hunting.
Zone 4: Devils Island/Little Devils Island
Zone 4 is located in the southwestern portion of the refuge. It is a good area for deer and squirrel hunting.
Zone 5: Highwater Lake
Zone 5 is located in the southeastern portion of the refuge. It is a good area for waterfowl and turkey hunting.
Zone 6: Cache River Corridor
Zone 6 is a long, narrow zone that follows the Cache River through the center of the refuge. It is a popular area for deer hunting. This zone has a higher bag limit for deer than the other zones.
| Hunting Zone | Bag Limit for Deer |
|—|—|
| Zone 1 | 2 deer |
| Zone 2 | 1 deer |
| Zone 3 | 2 deer |
| Zone 4 | 2 deer |
| Zone 5 | 1 deer |
| Zone 6 | 3 deer |
Safety Precautions for Hunting in Cache River
1. Secure Your Hunting License and Permit
Obtain the necessary license and permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).
2. Wear Hunter Orange
Adorn yourself with at least 500 square inches of visible hunter orange clothing during hunting hours.
3. Identify Your Target
Positively identify your target before taking a shot. Avoid mistaking other hunters, hikers, or animals for game.
4. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger
Handle firearms with caution and maintain finger discipline until ready to shoot.
5. Train Regularly
Practice shooting and hone your hunting skills to ensure proficiency and accuracy.
6. Stay Alert
Remain vigilant of your surroundings and be aware of other hunters in the area. Avoid hunting in crowded or high-traffic zones.
7. Respect Private Property
Obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property. Respect boundaries and avoid trespassing.
8. First Aid Kit and Signaling Device
Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and a signaling device, such as a whistle or personal locator beacon, in case of emergencies. Below are some essential items to include in your first aid kit:
| Essential First Aid Kit Items |
|---|
| Antiseptic wipes |
| Antibiotic cream |
| Bandages |
| Pain relievers |
| Gauze pads |
9. Communicate Your Hunting Plans
Inform someone of your hunting itinerary, including your destination, expected return time, and any potential hazards.
10. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs while hunting. Impaired judgment can lead to accidents or dangerous situations.
Additional Permits and Regulations
All hunting within the unit requires a valid firearm or archery deer permit. You can obtain these permits through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website or at local license vendors.
Additional permits or authorizations may be required for specific activities within the unit, such as camping or hunting during special seasons.
Hunter Access Permit
A Hunter Access Permit (HAP) is required to access portions of the unit during the designated hunting period. HAPs are available through a lottery system at any IDNR license vendor. For more information, refer to the IDNR website.
Vehicle Access Permit
A Vehicle Access Permit (VAP) is required to drive vehicles on designated roads within the unit during the open hunting hours. VAPs are available at IDNR license vendors or online through the IDNR website.
Check Stations
Hunters are required to visit designated check stations upon entering and exiting the unit. This is a mandatory regulation to monitor harvest levels.
Firearms and Archery Equipment
Only合法 firearms and traditional archery equipment are permitted for hunting within the unit. All firearms must be unloaded and properly cased when not in use.
Baiting and Feeding
Baiting or feeding deer is illegal within the unit. Hunters must avoid activities that could attract deer to a specific location.
Remote Scouting
Remote scouting using drones or other electronic devices is not permitted within the unit.
Respecting the Area
Hunters are expected to respect the natural resources and the rights of other users. This includes minimizing noise and disturbance, and being courteous to others.
Penalties for Violations
Violating any of these regulations can result in suspension of hunting privileges, fines, or even imprisonment. It is essential to comply with all regulations to ensure a safe and ethical hunting experience.
For more detailed information, refer to the IDNR website or contact the local IDNR office for the specific permit and regulation requirements.
| Permit Type | Required? | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Firearm or Archery Deer Permit | Yes | IDNR website or local license vendors |
| Hunter Access Permit (HAP) | Yes (for certain areas) | Lottery system through IDNR license vendors |
| Vehicle Access Permit (VAP) | Yes (for driving vehicles on designated roads) | IDNR license vendors or online through the IDNR website |
Cache River Permit 2024-2025
The Cache River Permit is a waterfowl hunting permit that allows hunters to hunt on the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas. The permit is valid for the 2024-2025 hunting season, which runs from October 15, 2024 to January 31, 2025. Hunters must apply for the permit through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s online lottery system. The deadline to apply is August 1, 2024.
The Cache River National Wildlife Refuge is a 88,000-acre wetland complex located in eastern Arkansas. The refuge is home to a variety of waterfowl species, including mallards, wood ducks, and gadwalls. The Cache River Permit allows hunters to hunt on the refuge’s waterfowl management areas, which are managed specifically for waterfowl hunting.
The Cache River Permit is a limited-entry permit, which means that only a certain number of permits are issued each year. The number of permits issued depends on the number of waterfowl that are expected to be present on the refuge during the hunting season. For the 2024-2025 hunting season, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has issued 1,500 permits.
Hunters who are selected for a Cache River Permit will receive a permit packet in the mail. The permit packet will include a permit card, a map of the refuge, and a set of hunting regulations. Hunters must carry their permit card with them while hunting on the refuge.
People Also Ask About Cache River Permit 2024-2025
How do I apply for a Cache River Permit?
You can apply for a Cache River Permit through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s online lottery system. The deadline to apply is August 1, 2024.
How many Cache River Permits are issued each year?
For the 2024-2025 hunting season, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has issued 1,500 permits.
What is the cost of a Cache River Permit?
The cost of a Cache River Permit is $25.
What are the hunting regulations for the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge?
The hunting regulations for the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge are available on the refuge’s website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/cache_river/
